There are several steps involved in purchasing a new or used forklift truck. Consider the following things prior to choosing.
Step 1: What are your needs?
Think about the kinds of loads you will be carrying and how heavy they typically are. Consider the maximum lifting height that you will require. Find out whether you would be utilizing the forklift outdoors or indoors, or both. Measure the width of your narrowest aisles and gauge how much maneuvering space there is. What would be the duration of use every day in terms of hours?
Step 2: Is a used forklift your best choice?
Purchasing a used forklift is a good idea if you would just use it four hours the most per day.
Step 3: Fuel options
Electric forklifts are suitable for utilizing indoors because they are relatively quiet and produce no exhaust emissions. They have big batteries which should last eight hours before you need to recharge it. The purchase cost of electric forklifts is higher, but the operating expenses are lower. On the plus side, they do not require space for fuel storage. They also tend to last longer since they have fewer moving parts. On the other hand, the time it takes to recharge the battery must be taken into account. This could as much as 16 hours, including recharging and cooling. And battery recharging stations might be needed.
Step 4: Tire choice
Forklifts have cushion tires. There are several alternatives when it comes to tires. Several are fabricated of solid rubber, a few are inflated, and several combine qualities of both - solid pneumatic tires. For indoor use, cushion tires are recommended. For outdoor use, pneumatic tires are better. Solid pneumatic tires are less likely to be punctured by sharp things or rough terrain so they are the best choice for risky conditions.
Step 5: Consider additional options
When purchasing a new or used forklift truck, consider additional alternatives. Look at the different attachments that you may need to customize your forklift. Check out the ergonomics and safety features of the forklift
Step 6: Evaluate your choices
In order to find out what kind of forklift really suits your needs, renting different models and brands is a great idea. A good dealer will agree to help you with this. This would guarantee that the model you ultimately purchase is the correct one for all your needs. Be certain to consult with your dealer.